Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingKayak LaunchLightingConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Whitman Hollow

La Follette, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Whitman Hollow is a public boat ramp on Big Creek - Norris Lake near La Follette, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Big Creek - Norris Lake near La Follette, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.

Whitman Hollow provides shoreline access to Big Creek - Norris Lake in Tennessee, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and kayak launch and lighting and concessions.

Whitman Hollow sits about 5 min from La Follette, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Whitman Hollow ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Whitman Hollow?
Whitman Hollow is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Whitman Hollow?
Whitman Hollow supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Whitman Hollow?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Whitman Hollow?
The best time to paddle at Whitman Hollow is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Whitman Hollow?
Water conditions at Whitman Hollow include calm, sheltered.
Is Whitman Hollow good for beginners?
Yes, Whitman Hollow is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 36.3180, -84.0925

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from La Follette
Get Directions

36.3180, -84.0925

Best Paddling in Tennessee

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Whitman Hollow

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!